Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has emphatically stated that cricketing stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should not be dismissed despite India’s recent seven-wicket defeat to Australia in the opening match of their three-game One-Day International series. Ponting’s comments came on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, after the Perth encounter.
The series, which saw India falter on Sunday in Perth, is set to continue with the second match in Adelaide on Thursday, October 23, 2025, culminating in Sydney on Saturday.
Both Kohli and Rohit have transitioned to exclusively playing 50-over cricket, having retired from other formats. Their return to the field on Sunday marked their first appearance since their Champions Trophy victory in March, all eyes now on their preparations for the 2027 World Cup.
However, their performances against Australia’s formidable pace attack were less than ideal. Rohit Sharma was caught at second slip after edging Josh Hazlewood for just eight runs, while Virat Kohli departed for a duck, cutting Mitchell Starc straight to a brilliant diving catch by Cooper Connolly at backward point.
Despite these early setbacks, Ponting remains highly optimistic that the legendary duo will quickly regain their signature form.
Speaking on the ICC Review podcast, Ponting emphasized, ‘You never write off champion players. These two are among the greatest, and I’ve previously stated that Virat is the finest 50-over player I’ve ever witnessed. Their class is undeniable.’
He continued, ‘They are bound to find ways to contribute significantly and secure wins for their team. If they do, they will undoubtedly be key members of the 2027 World Cup squad. I fully expect them to rebound and hit their stride very soon.’
Ponting acknowledged the challenge ahead, remarking, ‘Adelaide provides an excellent batting surface and is a fantastic venue for cricket. However, it won’t be a walk in the park, as they’ll be up against some of the greatest white-ball bowlers in the history of the sport.’
Echoing this sentiment, Ravi Shastri, who mentored both Rohit and Kohli during their prime, highlighted their immense stature both domestically and internationally. He stressed that these icons would never jeopardize their celebrated legacies by prolonging their careers unnecessarily.
Shastri reflected on their enduring impact, stating, ‘Their contribution spans more than a decade, and in Virat’s case, a decade and a half. It’s truly special. Regardless of when they decide to retire, their extraordinary legacy will stand the test of time.’